In 2001, Morariu was diagnosed with leukemia and began a program of chemotherapy. During this time, Jennifer Capriati dedicated her 2001 French Open victory to Morariu. She also received an inspirational letter from Lance Armstrong, a cancer survivor.[3] After recovering from cancer, along with shoulder surgery, Morariu was largely restricted to doubles play.[2] The WTA then created the Corina Comeback Award, which was presented to Morariu by Capriati.[1]

Morariu retired from the tour in 2007. She is an International Sports Ambassador for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and has released a memoir titled Living Through the Racket: How I Survived Leukemia...and Rediscovered My Self.[1] Following her retirement, she began working as a commentator for Tennis Channel.[4]